​

Training, Checking & Currency

This section outlines the training requirements and currency standards for Air Canada Virtual Airline pilots.

​

Training Program Elements

The Air Canada Virtual Airline training program consists of:

• Initial qualification training
• Recurrent training
• Special qualification training (CAT II/III, ETOPS, etc.)
• Upgrade training (First Officer to Captain)
• Differences training (for similar aircraft types)

​

Initial Qualification

For pilots joining Air Canada Virtual Airline or transitioning to a new aircraft type:

1. Computer-based training modules
2. Systems knowledge assessment
3. Standard operating procedures training
4. Flight management system training
5. Simulator training sessions
6. Line introduction flights with a Training Captain

​

Recurrency Requirements

Item	Frequency	Details
Line Check	12 months	One sector observed by Line Check Pilot
Simulator Recurrency	6 months	4 hours LOFT + 4 hours maneuvers
Emergency Procedures	12 months	Simulator or classroom review
Ground School	12 months	Systems, regulations, and procedures updates

​

Special Qualifications

​

CAT II/III Operations

• Initial qualification: Simulator training + theoretical knowledge
• Currency: 3 CAT II/III approaches in 90 days (any aircraft type in same category)
• Requalification required if currency lapses

​

Oceanic Operations

• Initial qualification: Classroom + practical plotting exercises
• Recurrent training: Every 18 months
• Must include NAT HLA procedures and contingency scenarios

​

ETOPS Operations

• Initial qualification: Specific training on extended operations
• Recurrent training: Every 12 months
• Includes diversion decision-making and single-engine scenarios

​

PIC/SIC Requirements

​

Upgrade to Captain (PIC)

Requirements to upgrade from First Officer to Captain:

1. Minimum 500 hours on type as First Officer
2. Successful completion of command course
3. Satisfactory performance on PIC line check
4. Demonstration of leadership and decision-making skills

​

First Officer (SIC) Requirements

For initial qualification as First Officer:

1. Complete SIC training program
2. Demonstrate proficiency in normal and abnormal procedures
3. Complete line introduction flights
4. Successfully complete SIC line check

​

Currency Tracking

Air Canada Virtual Airline maintains a currency tracking system that:

• Automatically monitors approach and landing currency
• Alerts pilots when recurrency is due
• Prevents scheduling when currency requirements are not met
• Provides monthly status reports to pilots

​

Training Records

Comprehensive training records are maintained for each pilot including:

• Training events completed and dates
• Proficiency check results
• Line check evaluations
• Special qualifications and expiry dates
• Recurrent training due dates

​

Remedial Training

For pilots requiring additional training:

1. Specific areas requiring improvement are identified
2. Tailored training plan is developed
3. Additional simulator sessions are provided
4. Reassessment is conducted to confirm proficiency
5. Monitoring continues during subsequent line operations

Next Section: Data Monitoring & Reports

Continue to learn about flight data monitoring and reporting procedures